Abuja – The Federal Government has reportedly offered a 40 per cent salary increase to lecturers under the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), sources close to the negotiations told our correspondent in Abuja.
The proposal comes as ASUU prepares to return to the negotiation table with the government delegation, led by former security chief Yayale Ahmed. The development follows a consensus reached during the union’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Abuja on Sunday. Branch leaders are expected to communicate the proposal to members across the country.
Speaking anonymously due to restrictions on media engagement during negotiations, a union member said, “They made a proposal of a 40% salary increment. Branch leaders will go back and update members on the situation. As it stands, negotiations continue with the government next week.”
ASUU’s one-month ultimatum to the government ended last Saturday, raising tension across public universities nationwide. In a last-minute move to prevent a potential strike, the government convened an emergency meeting with ASUU leadership in Abuja on Monday, which extended into Tuesday.
Both parties have declined to disclose details of the discussions, citing strict rules governing the negotiation process.
The union has cited lingering issues including the review of the 2009 ASUU-Federal Government agreement, payment of outstanding salaries and allowances, and the disbursement of the university revitalisation fund as key points for resolution.
Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa, who is currently abroad, maintained that the government has addressed the union’s demands. Two weeks ago, he told State House correspondents, “The President has mandated that ASUU should not go on strike, and we are doing everything possible to ensure students remain in school. We have met their requirements and continue to engage them at the negotiation table.”
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the umbrella body for labour unions, has pledged support for ASUU, promising to advocate for lecturers if the government fails to meet the union’s demands.
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